Pastor's Corner: Service held for people with a blue Christmas

Friday, Dec. 21, at 7 p.m., Van Orsdel United Methodist Church will host its second annual “Blue Christmas” service. But just what is a “Blue Christmas” service? I hear you ask. Let me try to answer that for you now.

For many people, the approaching Christmas holiday does not bring with it the joy and happiness that is advertised on television or in greeting cards. Consequently blue, as in the blues; as in “I’m feeling blue.” Believe it or not, many people do not experience the Advent/Christmas season as a period of joy and celebration. For many — and perhaps for more of us than would care to admit it — this season transports our greatest fears, losses, realities and shattered hopes into a time when most people are singing, socializing and enjoying life to the fullest. This service is especially for you, you for whom the holidays are not a joyful time and when you are often compelled to “put on a happy face” for others, denying your own very real feelings.

So, for all of you who are dealing with the death of a loved one, facing life after divorce or separation, coping with the loss of a job, retirement, living with cancer or some other “dis-ease” that puts a question mark over the future, and any number of other human situations that make parties and joviality painful — this service is for you.

This Blue Christmas service is one where while we especially remember the loss of our loved ones. We also recognize our own “other” losses and/or grief, courage, memories of better times, and love. This is an informal service and open to the community, so all are welcome and please come as you are.

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The Rev. William D. “Mac” McGrew is pastor at Van Orsdel United Methodist Church